Individual and Organizational Strategies for Promoting Work–Life Balance for Sustainable Workforce: A Systematic Literature Review from Pakistan

Shawana Fazal (), Sobia Masood, Farrukh Nazir and Muhammad Iqbal Majoka
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Shawana Fazal: Department of Education, Hazara University, Mansehra 21120, Pakistan
Sobia Masood: National Institute of Psychology, Centre of Excellence, Quaid-i-Azam University, Islamabad 45320, Pakistan
Farrukh Nazir: Department of Education, Hazara University, Mansehra 21120, Pakistan
Muhammad Iqbal Majoka: Department of Education, Hazara University, Mansehra 21120, Pakistan

Sustainability, 2022, vol. 14, issue 18, 1-33

Abstract: This systematic review aimed to explore the challenges and strategies for maintaining a work–life balance (WLB) between individual workers and their organizations during COVID-19 in the Pakistani context. Using the inductive approach in thematic synthesis, we analyzed eight qualitative studies on WLB from December 2019–April 2022. The Quality Appraisal process for selecting studies, constant comparison method, and critical discussion was frequently used to enhance the validity and reliability of findings. Eight analytical themes provided insight related to the challenges of maintaining WLB, strategies for facilitating, and recommended strategies for a sustainable workforce. Workload during COVID-19, lack of resources, training in technology, and mental pressure appeared as significant barriers, while family support, counseling provided by the organization, and self-motivation emerged as facilitators for WLB. Further, the findings highlighted the need for organizational interventions, for instance, emergency preparedness and capacity building of employees. Findings provided insight about guidelines for policymakers and government to make informed decisions and policies about maintaining WLB for mental well-being and a sustainable workforce, particularly women. The synthesis implied that investment in the well-being and productivity of employees could contribute to retaining a more resilient and skilled workforce, ensuring women’s workforce sustainability, and enabling lasting recovery from the pandemic.

Keywords: COVID-19; mental well-being; organizational strategies; sustainable workforce; work–life balance (search for similar items in EconPapers)
JEL-codes: O13 Q Q0 Q2 Q3 Q5 Q56 (search for similar items in EconPapers)
Date: 2022
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